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Football Stadium DigestFootball Stadium Digest covers major stories and events in the planning, construction and operations of NCAA and professional NFL football stadiums across the United States and Canada.

Big Week at Hard Rock Stadium

Months of anticipation will come to an end this week, as the renovated Hard Rock Stadium is set to host NFL and NCAA action.

As far as facilities are concerned, the ongoing work to Hard Rock Stadium was one of the biggest stories of football’s offseason. The stadium received upgrades during phase two of its renovation project that amounted to some of its most sweeping changes, including the addition of a canopy to cover the seating bowl and the installation of new videoboards.

The arrival of the made over Hard Rock Stadium comes at a crucial time for both the Miami Dolphins and the Miami Hurricanes. On Thursday, the Dolphins will host the Tennessee Titans for a preseason game that will mark the first NFL contest since the renovations were completed. The Hurricanes, whose home opener was the subject of much speculation over recent months because of the project’s timeline, will play their home opener on Saturday. Prior reports indicated that the Hurricanes were considering alternate venues if Hard Rock Stadium was not complete by Saturday, but ultimately the team be able to stay put.

While a practice slated for Monday was cancelled because of storms, the Dolphins got their first look at the finished product and, by all accounts, the work at Hard Rock Stadium should amount to an improved experience for fans and players alike. More from the Sun Sentinel:

“It’s a beautiful stadium,” Dolphins defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh said Monday. “I think the fans will be very excited about the Jumbotrons — obviously there are four amazing ones in there.

“Hard Rock Stadium is going to be a rocking place, in my opinion. I’m excited to get out on that football field.”

Even better for fans who have sweltered in the sun for nearly three decades.

“If you go sit in the 300 level now it is night and day to what it was last year,” said Bill Senn, the Dolphins’ senior vice president of stadium renovations. “You’re in the shade, there’s a breeze blowing, even at 90 degrees it’s comfortable.”

The Dolphins’ first regular season game at Hard Rock Stadium is set for September 25, when they take on the Cleveland Browns.